Maths:
This term we have been learning to count to 20. Children are challenged to recognise and write the numbers. They have also been using different mathematical resources to represent a number between 1 – 20. Likewise they have been learning how to articulate subtraction number sentences using different mathematical language and prove if the answer is correct using different methods such as a number line or a ten frame.

The children have had a Vet’s Clinic in the role play area where they have had the opportunity to reinforce their learning about animals and how to care for them. They have used play dough to model different animals and have made farm animal face masks using different collage materials. They have also enjoyed making silhouette pictures of African animals on a sunset background. Next week the children will be exploring animals that live under the sea and will have  the opportunity to create under water sea pictures using a range of different materials.

With the lovely warm weather we have been experiencing the children have enjoyed being outside, especially in the garden. Our sandpit has been enjoyed daily as the children have made sandcastles together as well as digging and making patterns in the sand. Many of the children have enjoyed the opportunity to have water play outside as well as building in the construction area and mark making at the tables. The reading area has proved popular too with some children taking the opportunity to sit in the shade.

Phonics:
Children in Foundation are thriving in phonics and are reading real words with speed. They are beginning to read alien words with greater accuracy and fluency. There are individuals who are now starting to write sentences and are being taught set 3 sounds. Please continue to listen to your child read at home and access the phonics home learning documents to strengthen their understanding so they continue to make progress.

Reading:
This half term, our focus texts were Stanley’s Stick and The Gruffalo. Inspired by Stanley’s Stick, the children tapped into their creativity and explored a variety of imaginative uses for their own sticks. They transformed them into items such as pens, pencils, walking sticks, magic wands, and even paintbrushes, showing great inventiveness and enthusiasm during the activity.

After reading The Gruffalo, the children had a wonderful time making their own Gruffalo Crumble in the mud kitchen. They carefully read and followed the recipe, demonstrating excellent teamwork and early reading skills as they measured, mixed, and created their imaginative dishes inspired by the story.

RE: This half term, the children have been engaged in lessons designed to introduce the concept of society. As part of this, they explored the roles of significant religious figures such as Moses and Mohammed, listening to stories about these special messengers. To deepen their understanding of respect—a key value in any society—the children created a paper chain decorated with words that represent respectful behaviour, highlighting the qualities they believe are important in treating others kindly and fairly.

Writing:
In English, the children have been writing about the story of Farmer Duck and have been using lots of their phonic sounds, including some special friends! They also had a go at using tricky words in their writing. Similarly, this week we focused on the story ‘The tiger who came to tea’ and the children were excited when the tiger visited them for their picnic lunch on VE day.